A Korean Paradox

The Korea Herald News paper stated in the front page today that:

“Regulations on foreigners set to be eased… Government looks to make the life of foreign residents in Korea easier.” The Korean Herald, Monday October 29, 2007. However, the Korean Herald also reported on the same day by the same author “Entry requirements for foreign teachers to be toughened… Starting in December, foreign English teachers coming to Korea will be required to submit their criminal and health records when applying for their visas…” The Korean Herald, Monday October 29, 2007.

People who wish to teach in Korea will soon be required not only to submit their original degrees, sealed transcripts, photos, and scanned passports, they will also have to submit a police background check along with their medical history. Furthermore, the Gyeong-gi Board of Education now demands teachers give further proof of their degrees and transcripts, i.e. verification of school alumni.

Speaking from experience, it is difficult to receive a criminal record check while outside your native country. Teachers already in Korea may be expected to give criminal and medical history checks from their native country upon finding a new job in Korea, adding further stress in applying for employment.

Perhaps the relaxation of “regulations on foreigners” as stated earlier will push more and more foreigners to teach privately, rather than dealing with the tougher policies for legal English teachers.